Anorexia nervosa (AN) is described as an eating disorder, which is characterized by malnutrition,
a fear of gaining body mass, and a disturbed self-body image. This disease is dependent on biological,
psychological and socio-cultural factors. Among the various biological factors, the importance
of intestinal microbiota has recently attracted much attention. Identification of the gut microbiota
dysbiosis in patients with AN has opened new and promising research directions. Recent
observations focus in particular on the association between intestinal microorganisms and the
occurrence of functional gastrointestinal disorders associated with anorexia, anxiety and depression,
as well as the regulation of eating habits. The composition of the gut microbiota differs between
patients with AN and individuals with normal body mass. This is due to the incorrect diet
of patients; on the other hand, there is growing interest in the role of intestinal microbiota in the
pathogenesis of AN, its changes through re-nutrition practices, and in particular the modulation
of intestinal microbiological composition by means of nutritional interventions or the use of preand
probiotics as standard supplements therapy of eating disorders. There is a need for further
research about the microbiome - intestine - brain axis. Furthermore, consequences of changes in
dietary habits as part of AN treatment are also unknown. However, better knowledge about the
relationship between the gut microbiome and the brain can help improve the treatment of this
disorder. This review aims to present the current knowledge about the potential role of intestinal
microbiota in the pathogenesis, course and treatment of AN.
Gut microbiome dysbiosis in anorexia nervosa